The hidden costs of cheap flowers

8 November 2023

Who hasn’t been tempted by cheap flowers? Supermarkets and online flower retailers lure us in with budget-friendly bouquets, but if you dig a little deeper, the value of these “bargains” becomes questionable. While the initial cost may seem appealing, you’re often sacrificing quality, freshness, and longevity. Cheap flowers are typically mass-produced, bought in bulk, and transported over long distances in refrigerated trucks, which impacts their overall quality and lifespan.


Buying flowers from a trusted Christchurch florist like Fleur by DK, however, ensures that you’re getting fresh, carefully selected blooms sourced from local markets and growers. Unlike mass-produced flowers, florist-bought blooms are handled with care and are intended to offer longer-lasting beauty and impact.


Signs of cheap flower quality

Cheap flowers may look attractive at first glance, but their flaws become apparent rather quickly. Here are some tell-tale signs of low-quality flowers:


1. Wilting or drooping stems

Cheap flowers often have weak or drooping stems that struggle to support the weight of the flower head. This drooping is a sign of poor hydration, structural weakness, or improper handling during transportation. These stems are often yellow or brown, lacking the vitality to stay upright in a vase.


In contrast, Fleur by DK’s florist-quality flowers have firm, green stems that are expertly cut and arranged to maximize hydration, longevity, and vibrancy. When you buy from a florist, you can trust that the flowers are crafted to maintain their structure and beauty.


A bunch of flowers on a table with one that says love

2. Crispy, discoloured petals

Cheap flowers often display signs of stress, such as crispy or discoloured petals, especially on delicate blooms like roses or lilies. These flowers may have endured rough handling, exposure to extreme temperatures, or inadequate watering, resulting in a tired, aged appearance.


Fleur by DK selects only the freshest, most vibrant blooms from local markets and growers. Each bouquet is closely monitored for freshness to ensure that every petal is smooth, bright, and evenly coloured. When you buy from a florist, you’re guaranteed flowers that look fresh and beautiful for much longer.


3. Lack of fragrance and scent

One of the most noticeable aspects of cheap flowers is their lack of fragrance. Commercially grown flowers are often selected for their visual appeal and longevity, not their scent. Growers frequently prioritise bloom size and disease resistance over fragrance, meaning that many supermarket flowers lack the characteristic scent we associate with fresh blooms.


At Fleur by DK, our florists believe that scent is an essential part of the floral experience. Our flowers are chosen for their fragrance as well as their beauty, creating a multi-sensory experience with every bouquet. When you step into our Christchurch store, you’re greeted by a rich tapestry of natural floral scents, a delight for the senses that online and supermarket flowers simply can’t replicate.


A bunch of flowers are wrapped in white paper

The true value of florist flowers: quality, freshness, and expertise

When you choose Fleur by DK, you’re not just buying flowers—you’re investing in quality, expertise, and a bouquet designed to last. Our flowers aren’t just fresh and vibrant; they’re hand-picked for their seasonality, sustainability, and beauty. Our creative team considers each bouquet a work of art, custom-crafted to suit your occasion, whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or simply a treat for yourself.


Each bouquet is thoughtfully arranged to ensure maximum longevity, with flowers that are conditioned to last longer than typical store-bought blooms. Our florists understand the intricate needs of each flower type and apply expert techniques to bring out the best in every arrangement.


Why choose Fleur by DK for your Flower needs?

Opting for flowers from a professional florist means enjoying blooms that are curated with care, handled with expertise, and crafted to last. Our flowers are sourced locally whenever possible, ensuring freshness and minimizing the environmental impact of transportation. Plus, our skilled florists create each arrangement to highlight the beauty of each bloom, creating an experience that supermarket flowers simply cannot match.


When you choose Fleur by DK in Christchurch, you’re guaranteed:


  • Long-lasting freshness: Our flowers are selected for their quality and conditioned to last.
  • Personalised design: Every arrangement is crafted with your preferences and style in mind.
  • Exceptional fragrance and beauty: Experience the rich, natural scent of fresh flowers as they were meant to be enjoyed.
  • Professional care and handling: Our florists apply expertise to maximize the beauty and longevity of every bloom.


Discover the difference with Fleur by DK in Christchurch

If you’re ready to experience the true value of florist-quality flowers, we invite you to visit our Merivale store in Christchurch. Let us help you select the perfect bouquet for any occasion, crafted with care, skill, and passion. At Fleur by DK, we’re proud to bring the best in fresh flowers, quality arrangements, and memorable experiences to every customer.


You’re not just buying a bunch of flowers; you’re investing in a product that brings lasting beauty, joy, and luxury to your life. Say goodbye to the hidden costs of cheap flowers and experience the difference that a professional Christchurch florist can make.


📍 Visit Us: 2A/186 Papanui Road, Merivale, Christchurch
📞 Call: 03 355 0464
💻 Learn More or Order Online

A group of women are standing next to each other holding flowers and gifts.

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